The $4.6 million unit was unveiled to members of the Cancer Outpatients Appeal, Hospital Auxiliary, Milton Ulladulla Hospital staff and representatives of Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) on Tuesday.

A journey spanning eight years came to an end on Tuesday as the doors to Milton-Ulladulla Hospital’s Renal and Palliative Care Unit were officially opened. 

In 2009 the need for a satellite dialysis unit in the region was highlighted in the district service plan for 2010 and 2015. 

After considerable backing from community groups, including the Cancer Outpatients Appeal and the Hospital Auxiliary, the seven-chair dialysis and two-bed palliative care unit is now accepting patients. 

Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District chief executive Margot Mains said the facility is a welcome addition to the district’s network of services.

“Today’s official opening is a significant milestone for the community,” she said. 

“We know demand for renal and palliative services will continue to increase. Being able to receive this care closer to home will be a welcome relief to many.”

Ms Mains thanked groups for their generation donations to the project. 

“This would not have been possible without the dedication, perseverance, leadership and support of many people,” she said. 

“I join the community in paying great acknowledgment and thanks to the Hospital Auxiliary and the Cancer Outpatients Appeal – I cannot thank you enough for all the hard work you have undertaken to make this happen.” 

The event was tinged with sadness for many by the passing of Hospital Auxiliary president Narelle Ober, who worked tirelessly to enhance localised medical services, before the new unit opened. 

A room will be named in her honour in the palliative care wing and known as the Narelle Ober OAM Patient and Family Room.